December is here, and in the art world that means its time for Miami Art Week and the all-important Art Basel Miami Beach. So, what should one wear to a global art fair like Art Basel, when the creative class will be out in full force? Based on what we’ve seen at countless global art fairs, including Frieze, we’ve got answers. Here are our road-tested tips on what to wear and how to dress like a pro for Art Basel this week – or for any other important contemporary art fair, museum art exhibit or gallery show on your calendar, including dresses, bags and more.
what should you wear to art basel (or any contemporary fair, museum exhibit or gallery show?)
The contemporary art world flock is headed to South Florida this week for the last big art shows of 2023. With days of museum shows, gallery visits, VIP dinners and performances from pop culture stars, there are lots of opportunities to dress up. And potentially lots of angst about what to wear and how to dress. So, for Art Basel and any one of the other big contemporary art fairs, museum exhibits and gallery shows you may have on your calendar this year, the key fashion question is: how to dress to impress (or at least blend in) at an art fair like Art Basel?
What to wear to Art Basel or any contemporary art fair, museum exhibit or gallery show.
Based on what we’ve seen (and worn) at various editions of Art Basel, Frieze and more, here are some ideas and fashion inspo straight from the source. Unsurprisingly, art insiders tend to embrace vibrant colors whether in monochrome, print or pattern. Pop-colored bags as arm candy are also de rigueur. Which is a good thing! ‘Cause, sure, the contemporary art scene can be intimidating. But in the end, it’s actually all about allowing yourself to be you – and to have some fun while you’re at it.
Whether you’re visiting an upcoming contemporary art museum exhibit, gallery show or another see-and-be-seen event, here are some chic choices to help you decide what to wear and how to dress to be your best self.
How to dress for Art Basel and other contemporary fairs, museum exhibits and gallery shows
1. Head-to-Toe Prints (clashing encouraged).
While New Yorkers are famous for wearing all black, there was plenty of color and pattern play at Frieze New York. Think animal prints, gingham, tie-dye, ditsy florals and tropical palms. No blank canvases here!
What to wear and how to dress for Art Basel or other contemporary fair, museum exhibit or gallery show. VIP Preview Day at Frieze New York 2022. Photo Credit: Dandelion Chandelier.
One of our go-to brands, Aje, is offering a linen-blend mini dress with an edgy floral vibe.
BUY NOW – $525.00.
For Art Basel Miami Beach in particular, we love the idea of a flowing maxi skirt in a standout print, like this one from Ulla Johnson.
BUY NOW – $590.00.
Rainbow-colored parachute pants made in Morocco are a guaranteed way to keep all eyes on you.
BUY NOW: $415.00.
You could also opt for a strong geometric statement, or a stripe like this bestselling black and white striped maxi dress from Posse.
BUY NOW – $240.00.
2. Boldly Monochromatic.
Female political figures are often associated with bold and colorful power dressing. The looks are instantly iconic and convey confidence. No surprise that they also figure prominently at the most important art fairs every year.
What to wear and how to dress for Art Basel or other contemporary fair, museum exhibit or gallery show. VIP Preview Day at Frieze New York 2022. Photo Credit: Dandelion Chandelier.
The blazer has been our secret weapon for getting dressed up and looking polished in no time. And to be totally on-trend, you need an oversized one. Like this electric blue double-breasted one from Sergio Hudson. Style it with the matching pant for the full effect.
BUY NOW – $2,095.00.
A bold pink dress just lights up the face with a rosy glow. We love the vibrant energy of this maxi from Mara Hoffman.
BUY NOW: $595.00.
3. Arm Candy
Handbags in bright, juicy colors seem to have replaced luxury logos among the contemporary art fair crowd – meaning maybe leave logomania behind when you decide what to wear for Art Basel. Perhaps it’s a twist on stealth wealth and quiet luxury that’s not so quiet?
Either way, we love this look as the weather warms. And as shown by these pics from the Frieze, it’s an easy way to make a darker outfit pop.
What to wear and how to dress for Art Basel or other contemporary fair, museum exhibit or gallery show. VIP Preview Day at Frieze New York 2022. Photo Credit: Dandelion Chandelier.
As we all know by now, Telfar bags sell out fast. The iconic Unisex Shopping Bag in red is the perfect statement bag. You know what to do!
BUY NOW – $240.00 for a vintage medium on Stockx.
This Balenciaga Le Cagole shoulder bag is both modern and playful with its distinctive silhouette and gorgeous color.
BUY NOW – $2,550.00.
Chic bags in saturated colors can also come with an added bonus: texture. Like this beaded bag by Clio Peppiatt.
BUY NOW – $545.00.
4. Statement Flats, Kitten Heels, and Sneakers
Save the high heels for the after-parties. When you’re spending hours walking around the galleries and schmoozing, you need comfortable footwear. The art crowd’s choice of footwear is chic flats, kitten heels or sneakers. Don’t be afraid to go more eclectic and bold than you’re normally used to – you’ll have plenty of company!
With a sculptural silhouette and pointed toe, these metallic slingbacks are stylish and fun – and pretty much go with everything.
BUY NOW – $890.00.
Ballet flats are the solution to many fashion dilemmas – meaning you should always have a pair or two standing by. We love the coppery look of this satin pair from Loeffler Randall.
BUY NOW – $250.00.
Cool sneakers are a fashion staple and they easily go from day to night. For an art show event, we love these new “Defender” sneakers from Balenciaga. The ultra-exaggerated rubber sole is inspired by motocross tires.
BUY NOW – $740.00.
5. Smart Layering
Your mom was right all along. We can’t emphasize enough that you’ll need to dress with layers in mind. Not only for chilly rooms and changing temps but because they are the key to making an outfit look balanced and nonchalant. Whether it’s a practical cardigan or the trendy jacket of the moment, you’ll be glad you brought it.
The goes-with-everything denim jacket looks even cooler in cropped black, like this one from L.A. brand Slverlake. It’s oversized, so it’ll go over whatever outfit you need, and the raw-edge hem is the perfect way to add some edge to even the softest looks.
BUY NOW – $429.00.
The Khaite “Lavan” cropped cardigan is the “it” layer of the season. It’s an investment piece, and in a neutral hue or your favorite color, you’ll reach for it year-round for work and off-duty, with wide trousers, jeans and more.
BUY NOW – $1,680.00.
This trench from A.W.A.K.E. is one you can toss over any outfit to instantly look more creative – and more interesting.
BUY NOW – $870.00.
what to wear to Art Basel or any contemporary fair, museum exhibit or gallery show
There you have it, straight from the source. What to wear and how to dress for Art Basel, or any other contemporary fair, museum exhibit or gallery show, including dresses, bags and more. Because the people-watching is just as satisfying as looking at the art, and you’ve got to do your part, dear reader.
